Public defender must step up to the plate

Isabella Robertson, the Bonner County public defender was featured in an article of the Bonner County Daily Bee on Oct. 19.  In the article, she claims that her office gives “adequate care to” her clients.

She also claims that every constitutional right is precious.

Yet, in the highest profile case in Bonner County, the first-degree murder charge against Keith Allen Brown, she has had no contact with Mr. Brown since April 4, 2008, a period of more than six-and-a-half months. This is during a critical pre-trial period, and according to the U.S. Constitution's 6th Amendment, Keith Allen Brown is entitled to “have the assistance of counsel for his defense.”

Instead, Isabella joined the prosecution to have Keith Brown committed as mentally diseased, and his case has been suspended. He has never seen his psychological report nor had treatment options explained to him, a violation of Idaho Code 18-211(5)(d). Also, he has a right under 18-211(8) to an independent evaluation, and under Idaho Code 18-212(1) there was the opportunity to contest the report and force a hearing.

Yet, Isabella Robertson did not advocate for her client. Step up to the plate, Isabella, and assist Keith in getting to trial and fulfill your responsibilities to the U.S. Constitution.

SCOTT HERNDON

Sagle